(Was it Carlos who asked originally - I'm losing track?)
I know of one Dormition - a fresco - which might show the Trinity receiving
the Virgin's soul (in the shape of a baby). Only one figure is represented
holding this baby, and it seems to be the Son, but the mandorla or
full-body nimbus surrounding it is such an odd shape - based on triangles -
that a reception of the soul by all three persons may be intended. Trouble
is it's in Serbia (and I hope it really still is there). It's a very
interesting image all round; the disbelieving Jew who tried to overturn the
bier is there, and several Apostles in procession. Date is about 1320. I
think I might be able to get an image to you as an attachment - I'll try
tomorrow and let you know.
It's not a Dormition, but I wondered if you knew Enguerrand de Charenton's
Coronation of the Virgin by the Trinity? This has identical figures for
the Father and Son (same apparent age, physical appearance, everything),
each holding one side of the crown which they place on the Virgin's head.
Between them and above the crown is the Paraclete, with a cross in a plain
disc above. The Coronation in taking place in the sky, with the whole
company of heaven gathered around. Below is a centrally placed Crucifixion
and scenes of Apocalypse, with a walled town at either side, one of which
may be Avignon. Early 15th century. Again, I could probably get a picture
sorted out if it's the kind of thing you're looking for.
They're not common, but I do know of several more Coronations of the Virgin
by the Trinity, in manuscript painting and in wall painting. I suspect
there may be a Carthusian connection for some of them. Certainly Marian
veneration didn't get much higher than this.
(Can I say thanks to Bill and James who showed an interest in my
wallpainting material. I'll respond to you both off-list after Saturday
when I've got a bit more time. And Christopher's 'Invisible electronic
college' sounds most interesting as well.)
Anne (Marshall)
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